It’s no secret that some parts of the world are better known for their wines than others, but the surprising fact remains that many countries that are not traditionally well known for their wine production bring some excellent wines to the market today. Up and coming wineries from far flung corners of the world are now rapidly gaining a reputation for their quality wines that can rival the quality of the best wines from the most famous wine regions in the world.

That’s not to say that the old favourites are no longer worth watching. Even long established wineries are innovating their techniques all the time, from improving the cultivation methods to fine tuning their fermentation processes. There are also some tried and true wines that are more traditional in flavour and appearance that will always be popular at the dinner table and for easy-drinking in your downtime.

If you love wine then the chances are that you like to explore the different types on offer but you also are likely to have a few favourites that you always fall back onto. If you are new to appreciating wines then you may be wondering which kinds you will enjoy and want a little guidance on where to start. Whatever your situation, this guide will explore the wine cultures in countries that are well known for their wine as well as some surprising newcomers to the game.

France

Everyone knows that France is one of the most prolific and well loved wine producing countries in the world. This country is home to some of the oldest and best established vineyards in the world with some using vines today that are over 300 years old. The most famous wine regions in France include Bordeaux, Rhone, Champagne, Burgundy and Provence. Many of the famous French wine regions are also top tourist destinations for people looking for a slice of idyllic French countryside life. Wine is a way of life in France, and is casually consumed with meals as well as as a celebration for special occasions.

Italy

Like France, Italy is known for its variety and quality of wines. Italian wine is as diverse as it is exciting and many old favourites are produced in the lush and temperate wine regions of Italy. Again, similarly to France, Italian culture also places a high value on wine and Italians are known for their approach to enjoying a good vintage with good food and company. The most famous wine regions in Italy include Piedmont, Tuscany, Lombardy, Abruzzo and Veneto. There are many characterful and regionally unique Italian wines to be discovered.

Georgia

Georgia is a small country that lies on the boundary between the European and Asian continents. It blends cultures from Eastern Europe and Western Asia and the wines that are produced here reflect this characteristic. Largely an underrated and unknown wine producer, Georgia has started making waves in the global wine market and is set to hit the mainstream in the coming years. The best regions for Georgian wine are Kakheti, Guria, Imereti and Adjara. Some of the oldest evidence for wine making lies in this general part of the world and in Georgia’s neighbours to the east so it’s no surprise that this country has a long history of wine production.

Germany

The Germans have been making incredible wines for thousands of years and the country as a whole has a strong wine tradition and culture and has its own unique regional wines that are widely celebrated. While not as popular as France and Italy for its wine production, Germany produces some highly specialised wines such as Riesling and Sylvaner that are well worth a try. The best wine regions in Germany are Baden, Saxony, Franconia and Ahr.

New Zealand

New Zealand’s wines are becoming more popular every year and the industry is currently undergoing a period of rapid transformation and growth. The diversity and quality of New Zealand wines is somewhat of a surprise because it is so new and has only really taken off in the last century. The climate and scenery of New Zealand make it a fantastic place to visit, and the wine tasting is an excellent bonus. Visitors to the country looking for the best wine tasting in a gorgeous setting should set their sights on a visit to Marlborough with its famously good wines, placid lakes and lofty hills.